The Shard, the UK’s tallest building, will rally the capital behind England this week with a spectacular red and white display ahead of the team’s FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina.
Following England’s dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in Saturday’s quarter-final, the landmark’s iconic spire will illuminate from Tuesday evening with a design inspired by the St George’s Cross. The lighting display will remain in place throughout Wednesday evening as England compete for a place in the World Cup final.
Featuring a shimmering St George’s Cross and dynamic red and white lighting, the display will be visible across the capital as London rallies behind England. The Shard will continue to fly the flag for the team should they secure a place in the World Cup final.
The Shard has a proud history of celebrating major national sporting occasions. It previously lit up the London skyline when the England men’s team reached the finals of UEFA EURO 2020 and UEFA EURO 2024. It also showed its support for the Lionesses during their triumphs at UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 and UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, as well as their run to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 final.
The Shard’s lights, which use energy-efficient LED units positioned across its top 20 storeys, can be seen across London and up to 40 miles away. The display will be visible to London’s residents and summer visitors, uniting the capital behind England’s World Cup campaign.
About The Shard
Standing 310 metres high, The Shard is Europe’s first vertical city. Designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop, it comprises a 26-floor office complex, five world-class bars and restaurants (Aqua Shard, Oblix, Hutong, TĪNG and GŎNG), a 19-floor five-star hotel (Shangri-La), and a viewing gallery offering 360-degree views of London (The View from The Shard). A floor-by-floor guide to The Shard can be found here: https://www.the-shard.com/shard/level-guide/
